1 safari lodges
    Northern Savanna & Bénoué Basin, Cameroon
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Parc National de la Bénoué

    Located in the northern savanna, Benoue National Park is a key stronghold for West African giraffes and a vital habitat for hippos along the Benoue River. It offers excellent opportunities for tracking lions, spotting giant eland, and observing a diverse array of birdlife, particularly during the dry season.

    Best timeNovember to February (dry season) for wildlife viewing in the north. Year-round for rainforest primates.
    Species
    70
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    1
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Parc National de la Bénoué Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    Recent sightings at Parc National de la Bénoué

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    70 species recorded in Parc National de la Bénoué5 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Parc National de la Bénoué

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Parc National de la Bénoué

    Cameroon, often called 'Africa in miniature,' offers a truly diverse safari experience, from the Sahelian savannas of the north to the dense equatorial rainforests of the south. We find the dry...

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Dry Season

    The north is beautifully dry and warm, with clear skies perfect for game viewing. In the south, it's a short dry season, offering a welcome respite from the rains and making forest trails more accessible.

    Northern parks like Waza see animals congregating around dwindling water sources, making sightings excellent. In the southern forests, gorillas and forest elephants are easier to track as the undergrowth thins slightly.

    We love January for its dual appeal, allowing us to combine classic savanna safaris with deep forest explorations for a truly comprehensive Cameroon experience.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Lobeke National Park
    +1

    February

    moderate

    Dry Season

    This is the heart of the dry season across much of the country. Expect hot, sunny days, especially in the north, with very little rainfall.

    Game viewing in the north is at its peak, with large herds of antelope, giraffe, and elephants easily spotted. Predator activity is high around waterholes, and birding remains strong.

    We recommend February for those seeking the quintessential northern Cameroon safari, where the wildlife viewing is consistently spectacular and the skies are a brilliant blue.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Faro National Park

    March

    low

    Transition / Long Rains Begin

    The north becomes increasingly hot and dusty as the dry season draws to a close. In the south, the long rainy season typically begins, bringing afternoon showers and increased humidity.

    Northern wildlife is still concentrated, but the heat can make daytime viewing challenging. In the south, the first rains bring a flush of green, and forest creatures are active, though tracking can be muddier.

    We find March to be a fascinating month for birding in the north as migratory species prepare to depart, offering a last chance to see them before the rains.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Korup National Park

    April

    low

    Long Rains

    April sees the full onset of the long rainy season in the south, with heavy downpours and high humidity. The north is still very hot, with occasional pre-rain showers.

    Wildlife viewing becomes more challenging across the board due to dense vegetation and animals dispersing. However, it's an excellent time for bird photography in the southern forests as many species are breeding.

    We suggest April for dedicated birdwatchers who don't mind the rain, as the southern rainforests come alive with vibrant avian activity.

    Korup National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve

    May

    low

    Long Rains / Transition

    The long rains continue in the south, though they might start to ease towards the end of the month. In the north, the first significant rains usually arrive, breaking the intense heat.

    The landscape transforms into a lush green, and newborn animals can sometimes be seen in the north. Forest wildlife is still present, but tracking conditions remain difficult due to mud.

    We appreciate May for the dramatic change in scenery, as the parched northern plains burst into life with the arrival of the first rains, offering unique photographic opportunities.

    Benoue National Park
    Waza National Park
    Lobeke National Park

    June

    low

    Wet Season / Short Dry Season

    The north is firmly in its wet season, with regular rains and lower temperatures. In the south, a short dry season typically begins, providing a window of drier weather.

    Northern parks are challenging with thick vegetation and dispersed animals. However, the short dry season in the south is excellent for tracking gorillas and forest elephants, as trails dry out.

    We highly recommend June for focusing on the southern rainforests, as the short dry spell makes gorilla trekking and forest exploration much more enjoyable.

    Lobeke National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve
    Korup National Park

    July

    low

    Wet Season / Short Dry Season

    The wet season continues in the north, with green landscapes and occasional heavy showers. The south enjoys its short dry season, with pleasant, drier conditions.

    While northern game viewing is tough, the southern forests offer some of the best opportunities for primate sightings and tracking forest elephants. Birding is excellent in the south.

    We find July to be one of the best months for an immersive rainforest experience, particularly for those keen on seeing western lowland gorillas in their natural habitat.

    Lobeke National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve
    Korup National Park

    August

    low

    Wet Season / Short Dry Season Ends

    The north remains wet and green. In the south, the short dry season typically ends towards the middle or end of August, with rains gradually returning.

    Southern forest wildlife viewing is still good in early August, but conditions become muddier as the month progresses. Northern parks are still challenging due to dense foliage.

    We suggest early August for a final push into the southern forests before the heavier rains return, maximizing your chances for comfortable tracking.

    Lobeke National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve
    Korup National Park

    September

    low

    Wet Season / Long Rains Begin

    The north is still experiencing its wet season, though rains may start to lessen. In the south, the long rainy season begins again, bringing consistent rainfall.

    Wildlife in both regions is dispersed and harder to spot. This is generally a quieter month for safaris, but the landscapes are incredibly lush and green.

    We consider September a month for the truly adventurous, offering a chance to witness Cameroon's landscapes at their most vibrant, albeit with more challenging travel conditions.

    Benoue National Park
    Korup National Park

    October

    low

    Wet Season Ends / Long Rains

    The wet season in the north typically ends by October, with conditions gradually drying out. The south is still in its long rainy season, with heavy downpours.

    As the north dries, animals begin to concentrate, and game viewing slowly improves. Southern forest wildlife remains elusive due to heavy rains and thick vegetation.

    We find October to be a transitional month, best suited for those looking to catch the very end of the northern wet season, witnessing the landscape's recovery and early signs of game concentration.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park

    November

    low

    Dry Season Begins

    The dry season firmly establishes itself in the north, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. The south is still experiencing some residual rains, but conditions are improving.

    Northern parks see game viewing steadily improving as water sources shrink and vegetation thins. Forest elephants and gorillas in the south become slightly easier to track towards month-end.

    We love November as the start of the prime safari season in the north, offering excellent game viewing without the peak season crowds.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Lobeke National Park

    December

    moderate

    Dry Season

    December brings beautiful dry weather to the north, with comfortable temperatures and abundant sunshine. The south enters its short dry season, making forest exploration very appealing.

    Game viewing in the north is excellent, with animals congregating around water. In the south, the drier conditions make tracking western lowland gorillas and forest elephants significantly easier and more rewarding.

    We consider December an ideal month for a comprehensive Cameroon safari, perfectly blending the classic savanna experience of the north with the unique rainforest adventures of the south.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Lobeke National Park
    +1

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Dry Season

    The north is beautifully dry and warm, with clear skies perfect for game viewing. In the south, it's a short dry season, offering a welcome respite from the rains and making forest trails more accessible.

    Northern parks like Waza see animals congregating around dwindling water sources, making sightings excellent. In the southern forests, gorillas and forest elephants are easier to track as the undergrowth thins slightly.

    We love January for its dual appeal, allowing us to combine classic savanna safaris with deep forest explorations for a truly comprehensive Cameroon experience.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Lobeke National Park
    +1

    February

    moderate

    Dry Season

    This is the heart of the dry season across much of the country. Expect hot, sunny days, especially in the north, with very little rainfall.

    Game viewing in the north is at its peak, with large herds of antelope, giraffe, and elephants easily spotted. Predator activity is high around waterholes, and birding remains strong.

    We recommend February for those seeking the quintessential northern Cameroon safari, where the wildlife viewing is consistently spectacular and the skies are a brilliant blue.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Faro National Park

    March

    low

    Transition / Long Rains Begin

    The north becomes increasingly hot and dusty as the dry season draws to a close. In the south, the long rainy season typically begins, bringing afternoon showers and increased humidity.

    Northern wildlife is still concentrated, but the heat can make daytime viewing challenging. In the south, the first rains bring a flush of green, and forest creatures are active, though tracking can be muddier.

    We find March to be a fascinating month for birding in the north as migratory species prepare to depart, offering a last chance to see them before the rains.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Korup National Park

    April

    low

    Long Rains

    April sees the full onset of the long rainy season in the south, with heavy downpours and high humidity. The north is still very hot, with occasional pre-rain showers.

    Wildlife viewing becomes more challenging across the board due to dense vegetation and animals dispersing. However, it's an excellent time for bird photography in the southern forests as many species are breeding.

    We suggest April for dedicated birdwatchers who don't mind the rain, as the southern rainforests come alive with vibrant avian activity.

    Korup National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve

    May

    low

    Long Rains / Transition

    The long rains continue in the south, though they might start to ease towards the end of the month. In the north, the first significant rains usually arrive, breaking the intense heat.

    The landscape transforms into a lush green, and newborn animals can sometimes be seen in the north. Forest wildlife is still present, but tracking conditions remain difficult due to mud.

    We appreciate May for the dramatic change in scenery, as the parched northern plains burst into life with the arrival of the first rains, offering unique photographic opportunities.

    Benoue National Park
    Waza National Park
    Lobeke National Park

    June

    low

    Wet Season / Short Dry Season

    The north is firmly in its wet season, with regular rains and lower temperatures. In the south, a short dry season typically begins, providing a window of drier weather.

    Northern parks are challenging with thick vegetation and dispersed animals. However, the short dry season in the south is excellent for tracking gorillas and forest elephants, as trails dry out.

    We highly recommend June for focusing on the southern rainforests, as the short dry spell makes gorilla trekking and forest exploration much more enjoyable.

    Lobeke National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve
    Korup National Park

    July

    low

    Wet Season / Short Dry Season

    The wet season continues in the north, with green landscapes and occasional heavy showers. The south enjoys its short dry season, with pleasant, drier conditions.

    While northern game viewing is tough, the southern forests offer some of the best opportunities for primate sightings and tracking forest elephants. Birding is excellent in the south.

    We find July to be one of the best months for an immersive rainforest experience, particularly for those keen on seeing western lowland gorillas in their natural habitat.

    Lobeke National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve
    Korup National Park

    August

    low

    Wet Season / Short Dry Season Ends

    The north remains wet and green. In the south, the short dry season typically ends towards the middle or end of August, with rains gradually returning.

    Southern forest wildlife viewing is still good in early August, but conditions become muddier as the month progresses. Northern parks are still challenging due to dense foliage.

    We suggest early August for a final push into the southern forests before the heavier rains return, maximizing your chances for comfortable tracking.

    Lobeke National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve
    Korup National Park

    September

    low

    Wet Season / Long Rains Begin

    The north is still experiencing its wet season, though rains may start to lessen. In the south, the long rainy season begins again, bringing consistent rainfall.

    Wildlife in both regions is dispersed and harder to spot. This is generally a quieter month for safaris, but the landscapes are incredibly lush and green.

    We consider September a month for the truly adventurous, offering a chance to witness Cameroon's landscapes at their most vibrant, albeit with more challenging travel conditions.

    Benoue National Park
    Korup National Park

    October

    low

    Wet Season Ends / Long Rains

    The wet season in the north typically ends by October, with conditions gradually drying out. The south is still in its long rainy season, with heavy downpours.

    As the north dries, animals begin to concentrate, and game viewing slowly improves. Southern forest wildlife remains elusive due to heavy rains and thick vegetation.

    We find October to be a transitional month, best suited for those looking to catch the very end of the northern wet season, witnessing the landscape's recovery and early signs of game concentration.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park

    November

    low

    Dry Season Begins

    The dry season firmly establishes itself in the north, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. The south is still experiencing some residual rains, but conditions are improving.

    Northern parks see game viewing steadily improving as water sources shrink and vegetation thins. Forest elephants and gorillas in the south become slightly easier to track towards month-end.

    We love November as the start of the prime safari season in the north, offering excellent game viewing without the peak season crowds.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Lobeke National Park

    December

    moderate

    Dry Season

    December brings beautiful dry weather to the north, with comfortable temperatures and abundant sunshine. The south enters its short dry season, making forest exploration very appealing.

    Game viewing in the north is excellent, with animals congregating around water. In the south, the drier conditions make tracking western lowland gorillas and forest elephants significantly easier and more rewarding.

    We consider December an ideal month for a comprehensive Cameroon safari, perfectly blending the classic savanna experience of the north with the unique rainforest adventures of the south.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Lobeke National Park
    +1

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Dry Season

    The north is beautifully dry and warm, with clear skies perfect for game viewing. In the south, it's a short dry season, offering a welcome respite from the rains and making forest trails more accessible.

    Northern parks like Waza see animals congregating around dwindling water sources, making sightings excellent. In the southern forests, gorillas and forest elephants are easier to track as the undergrowth thins slightly.

    We love January for its dual appeal, allowing us to combine classic savanna safaris with deep forest explorations for a truly comprehensive Cameroon experience.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Lobeke National Park
    +1

    February

    moderate

    Dry Season

    This is the heart of the dry season across much of the country. Expect hot, sunny days, especially in the north, with very little rainfall.

    Game viewing in the north is at its peak, with large herds of antelope, giraffe, and elephants easily spotted. Predator activity is high around waterholes, and birding remains strong.

    We recommend February for those seeking the quintessential northern Cameroon safari, where the wildlife viewing is consistently spectacular and the skies are a brilliant blue.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Faro National Park

    March

    low

    Transition / Long Rains Begin

    The north becomes increasingly hot and dusty as the dry season draws to a close. In the south, the long rainy season typically begins, bringing afternoon showers and increased humidity.

    Northern wildlife is still concentrated, but the heat can make daytime viewing challenging. In the south, the first rains bring a flush of green, and forest creatures are active, though tracking can be muddier.

    We find March to be a fascinating month for birding in the north as migratory species prepare to depart, offering a last chance to see them before the rains.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Korup National Park

    April

    low

    Long Rains

    April sees the full onset of the long rainy season in the south, with heavy downpours and high humidity. The north is still very hot, with occasional pre-rain showers.

    Wildlife viewing becomes more challenging across the board due to dense vegetation and animals dispersing. However, it's an excellent time for bird photography in the southern forests as many species are breeding.

    We suggest April for dedicated birdwatchers who don't mind the rain, as the southern rainforests come alive with vibrant avian activity.

    Korup National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve

    May

    low

    Long Rains / Transition

    The long rains continue in the south, though they might start to ease towards the end of the month. In the north, the first significant rains usually arrive, breaking the intense heat.

    The landscape transforms into a lush green, and newborn animals can sometimes be seen in the north. Forest wildlife is still present, but tracking conditions remain difficult due to mud.

    We appreciate May for the dramatic change in scenery, as the parched northern plains burst into life with the arrival of the first rains, offering unique photographic opportunities.

    Benoue National Park
    Waza National Park
    Lobeke National Park

    June

    low

    Wet Season / Short Dry Season

    The north is firmly in its wet season, with regular rains and lower temperatures. In the south, a short dry season typically begins, providing a window of drier weather.

    Northern parks are challenging with thick vegetation and dispersed animals. However, the short dry season in the south is excellent for tracking gorillas and forest elephants, as trails dry out.

    We highly recommend June for focusing on the southern rainforests, as the short dry spell makes gorilla trekking and forest exploration much more enjoyable.

    Lobeke National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve
    Korup National Park

    July

    low

    Wet Season / Short Dry Season

    The wet season continues in the north, with green landscapes and occasional heavy showers. The south enjoys its short dry season, with pleasant, drier conditions.

    While northern game viewing is tough, the southern forests offer some of the best opportunities for primate sightings and tracking forest elephants. Birding is excellent in the south.

    We find July to be one of the best months for an immersive rainforest experience, particularly for those keen on seeing western lowland gorillas in their natural habitat.

    Lobeke National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve
    Korup National Park

    August

    low

    Wet Season / Short Dry Season Ends

    The north remains wet and green. In the south, the short dry season typically ends towards the middle or end of August, with rains gradually returning.

    Southern forest wildlife viewing is still good in early August, but conditions become muddier as the month progresses. Northern parks are still challenging due to dense foliage.

    We suggest early August for a final push into the southern forests before the heavier rains return, maximizing your chances for comfortable tracking.

    Lobeke National Park
    Dja Faunal Reserve
    Korup National Park

    September

    low

    Wet Season / Long Rains Begin

    The north is still experiencing its wet season, though rains may start to lessen. In the south, the long rainy season begins again, bringing consistent rainfall.

    Wildlife in both regions is dispersed and harder to spot. This is generally a quieter month for safaris, but the landscapes are incredibly lush and green.

    We consider September a month for the truly adventurous, offering a chance to witness Cameroon's landscapes at their most vibrant, albeit with more challenging travel conditions.

    Benoue National Park
    Korup National Park

    October

    low

    Wet Season Ends / Long Rains

    The wet season in the north typically ends by October, with conditions gradually drying out. The south is still in its long rainy season, with heavy downpours.

    As the north dries, animals begin to concentrate, and game viewing slowly improves. Southern forest wildlife remains elusive due to heavy rains and thick vegetation.

    We find October to be a transitional month, best suited for those looking to catch the very end of the northern wet season, witnessing the landscape's recovery and early signs of game concentration.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park

    November

    low

    Dry Season Begins

    The dry season firmly establishes itself in the north, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. The south is still experiencing some residual rains, but conditions are improving.

    Northern parks see game viewing steadily improving as water sources shrink and vegetation thins. Forest elephants and gorillas in the south become slightly easier to track towards month-end.

    We love November as the start of the prime safari season in the north, offering excellent game viewing without the peak season crowds.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Lobeke National Park

    December

    moderate

    Dry Season

    December brings beautiful dry weather to the north, with comfortable temperatures and abundant sunshine. The south enters its short dry season, making forest exploration very appealing.

    Game viewing in the north is excellent, with animals congregating around water. In the south, the drier conditions make tracking western lowland gorillas and forest elephants significantly easier and more rewarding.

    We consider December an ideal month for a comprehensive Cameroon safari, perfectly blending the classic savanna experience of the north with the unique rainforest adventures of the south.

    Waza National Park
    Benoue National Park
    Lobeke National Park
    +1
    Planning & reference

    Parc National de la Bénoué offers an authentic, untamed safari experience, a true escape from the crowds. We love the feeling of having this vast wilderness almost to ourselves, a rare privilege in today's safari world, where the sunsets are sensational and the wildlife encounters feel incredibly personal.

    Gate Times

    We recommend confirming gate times directly with your lodge or local guide upon arrival. Typically, the park operates from sunrise to sunset, generally around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but these can be flexible depending on the season and specific safari activities planned. Permits are required for entry and are usually arranged in advance by your tour operator or lodge.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and a meaningful way to show appreciation for excellent service. We suggest tipping guides around 5,000-10,000 XAF (approximately 8-16 USD) per guest per day. For general camp staff, a communal tip of 2,000-5,000 XAF per guest per day, placed in a central box, is appropriate. Rangers accompanying you might receive a smaller, separate tip of 2,000-3,000 XAF. We always recommend tipping in local currency, XAF, if possible, or clean USD notes.

    Dress Code

    Given the warm climate, we recommend lightweight, breathable fabrics in neutral colours like khaki, olive green, or brown. Avoid bright colours and white, as they can attract insects and stand out to wildlife. Long sleeves and trousers are advisable for sun protection and to deter mosquitoes, especially in the evenings. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes are essential for game drives and any short walks.

    Photography

    Parc National de la Bénoué offers incredible opportunities for capturing rare West African species, so we recommend a good telephoto lens (300mm or more) for wildlife shots. Always be respectful of the animals; never use flash photography at night, as it can disturb them. Drones are generally not permitted in national parks without specific, often hard-to-obtain, permits, and we advise against their use to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors. Capture the stunning landscapes and the vibrant local culture, but always ask permission before photographing people.

    Etiquette

    We believe in respecting the wilderness and its inhabitants. Keep noise levels to a minimum during game drives to avoid disturbing animals and allow for better wildlife viewing. Always remain inside your vehicle unless instructed otherwise by your guide. Never feed animals, as it can alter their natural behaviour and lead to dependency. In camp, be mindful of other guests and maintain a respectful quiet, especially during early mornings and late evenings. We advocate for leaving no trace, taking all your rubbish with you.

    What to Bring

    Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing (long sleeves and trousers)
    Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
    High-factor sunscreen and insect repellent
    Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sandals
    Small backpack for day trips
    Reusable water bottle
    Binoculars (essential for wildlife spotting)
    Camera with a telephoto lens and extra batteries
    Headlamp or small flashlight
    Basic first-aid kit (including anti-malarials)
    Power bank for charging electronics
    Copy of passport and travel insurance

    Temperature

    24.99°C

    77°F · Range: 17.88–32.34°C

    Rainfall

    0 mm

    Dry season · 0 rainy days

    Humidity

    30.3%

    Sunshine

    10.9 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    3.08 m/s

    11.1 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Parc National de la Bénoué Reviews